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The emotional connection between Carapella and his work is evident. His face brightens when he speaks of his work. “When I sit at the drafting table, I approach the project like it’s the most important one I’ll ever do,” said Carapella. “The client for me, in the moment, is the most important thing. I treat them more like a friend. And people don’t always understand the importance of that relationship. Beyond simply designing a building, the architect overseas cost breakdowns, negotiates with contractors, with the city... there’s a lot that goes into a construction project.
“The architect is like a diplomat for the client. We represent the client to the borough, the contractor; you need to defend the client’s wishes. Finance, negotiation, artistic vision... these are all so important to complete a project and many people don’t foresee these hurdles. As an architect, you have to be the client’s guardian angel from the start of design until the structure is completed.”
PROJECT SPOTLIGHT
Wexford
The Home of Brigitte and John Savchik
Interior Design By: Mary Olliffe
The Modern American Classic home remodeled this year is the home of John and Brigitte Savchik. “I fell in love with a Bavarian house he designed in North Carolina, so I called him up and things just clicked,” Brigitte told us. “Carmine has so much talent; he is world class in my opinion. He far exceeded my expectations.”
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